Liturgy of the Word for Children begins in September. For the time being because of COVID-19, we are not able to hold Liturgy of the Word for Children but can provide the materials for those interested in doing it at home with their children. We will have more information in September.

Why do we offer Liturgy of the Word for Children?
The children’s Liturgy of the Word at Sunday Mass has the goal of helping children to participate more fully as members of the community gathered for worship. During the time of the regular Liturgy of the Word, the children are gathered separately to hear the Gospel story of the day proclaimed in language, activities, music and prayer appropriate to their age.

Who can attend?
Liturgy of the Word for Children is for children in pre-kindergarten through grade 3 (children must be four years old and able to attend the group on their own). Pre-K, kindergarten, first and second grades meet in meeting rooms two through five off the Gathering Area, while second grade meets in the Cabin down the hall by the Resource Center. In addition, five times a year we have Liturgy of the Word for fourth and fifth graders, held in the rooms by the Cabin.

There is no registration for Liturgy of the Word for Children. Children of the above ages may attend either the 9:30 a.m. or the 11:15 a.m. Liturgies.

When and where does Liturgy of the Word take place?
Liturgy of the Word runs from Late September through April. The children will be invited by the Presider to leave Church following the Opening Prayer when the as-sembly is seated for the Readings. Adult helpers will be present to direct them to the meeting rooms in the Ministry Center. We ask that parents not accompany the children beyond the Church doors. Given the number of children and space available, additional persons make movement more difficult. The time the children have is limited, so we attempt to gather them in their groups as quickly as possible. Before Mass, it would be helpful to walk the child through the pattern. If your child is still fearful, it would be better to wait until he/she is more comfortable after watching the process for a while. The children are brought back to church after the Prayers of the Faithful. At that time, please watch for your child, standing in your place if necessary to be seen. Adult helpers will always make certain each child finds his or her place.

We hope that you will take advantage of this opportunity to have your children hear the Word of God in a meaningful way. If you have any questions, please call the Faith Formation/Religious Education Office at (630) 305-6318.